gaming machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of reducing a risk of a claim arising from a player.SOLUTION: In the game machine, as a game state being a highly opening / closing mode, a first specific game state in which the highly opening / closing mode finishes with winning N-times (N is an integer of 2 or more) of small wins after starting as a trigger is provided. In the first specific game state, a mode of an object performance executed when a predetermined condition is satisfied is different between in a normal state before (N-1) times of occurrences of a non entry event in which no game ball has entered a privilege area in spite of having won a small win and in a special state after the (N-1) times of occurrences of the non entry event.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002] If a player does not play as instructed, or if an abnormality such as a power outage occurs, causing the progress of the game to differ from what was planned, this could lead to complaints from the player. Various gaming machines have been proposed to prepare for such abnormalities (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-017540 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the risk of complaints from players. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The gaming machine according to the present invention, which has been made to solve the above problems, comprises a win / loss lottery means for executing a win / loss lottery based on win / loss lottery information acquired when a gaming ball enters a starting area; a bonus area which is opened when the result of the win / loss lottery is a small win and in which the entry of the gaming ball is a condition for awarding a big win; an opening / closing mode setting means for setting a low opening / closing mode and a high opening / closing mode in which the gaming ball is more likely to enter the starting area than when in the low opening / closing mode; and a bonus area which is awarded depending on whether the high opening / closing mode is in effect at the time the gaming ball enters the bonus area. and a jackpot determination means for determining the type of jackpot to be won, and a first specific gaming state is provided as a gaming state that is the high opening / closing mode, in which the high opening / closing mode ends when N (N is 2 or more) small jackpots are won after the start of the mode, and in the first specific gaming state, the mode of the target presentation to be executed when a predetermined condition is met is different between a normal state before a non-entry event occurs N-1 times in which a small jackpot is won but the gaming ball does not enter the bonus area, and a special state after the non-entry event occurs N-1 times. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the risk of complaints from players. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] (a) is a schematic diagram showing the state inside the big prize area in a unit game (a unit game that constitutes a big win game) in which the bonus area is closed, (b) is a schematic diagram showing the state inside the big prize area in a unit game (a small win game) in which the bonus area is open, and (c) is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed during a small win game indicating that a game ball should be launched aiming at the bonus area. [Figure 3] A diagram showing decorative patterns and reserved patterns displayed in the display area. [Figure 4]10 is a diagram for explaining the gameplay (transition of game states, etc.) of the gaming machine according to this embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing the conditions for ending various specific game states (variable number conditions, small win conditions). [Figure 6] This is a diagram to explain the jackpot allocation (reference table) for the first win / loss lottery (special chart 1 lottery) and the second win / loss lottery (special chart 2 lottery) (this is a diagram to explain that for the second win / loss lottery, the allocation differs between when there is time reduction and when there is no time reduction). [Figure 7] This is a diagram to explain the reserved storage instruction effect and reserved storage completion effect that are executed at the final time-saving fluctuation (missing fluctuation) of the first specific game state. [Figure 8] This is a diagram to explain the outline of the variable effect that is executed during the remaining hold chance. [Figure 9] This is a diagram to explain the outline of the presentation (presentation executed during jackpot play) that notifies players whether the jackpot obtained after winning the second win / lose lottery (small win) and without time reduction is a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot. [Figure 10] A figure to explain the reserved storage instruction display and reserved storage completion display that are executed when the winnings change in the second specific game state. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing an image displayed when a special jackpot is won. [Figure 12] A diagram for explaining the "normal state" and "special state" in the first specific game state. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the difference between the target effects executed in the normal state in the first specific game state and the target effects executed in the special state. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining specific example 1-1. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining specific example 1-2. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining specific example 1-2. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining specific example 1-3. [Figure 18]FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining specific example 1-3. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining specific example 1-4. [Figure 20] This is a diagram for explaining a special image (a special image displayed during a special specific jackpot). [Figure 21] (a) is a diagram for explaining the division into special jackpots and non-special jackpots (first non-special jackpot, second non-special jackpot) in relation to promotion effects, and (b) is a diagram for explaining various winning combinations. [Figure 22] A diagram for explaining the special promotion effect. [Figure 23] A diagram for explaining the normal promotion effect. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a promotion failure effect. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining specific example 2-2. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining specific example 2-4. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining specific example 2-5. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a second diagram for explaining specific example 2-5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine 1 (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the various images in the following description include not only still images but also moving images. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the following description is based on the premise that normal play (play as intended) is being played. Furthermore, when it is said that "a gaming ball has entered XX (a winning prize)," strictly speaking, it means that the sensor installed in the XX has detected the entering gaming ball.

[0009] 1) Basic configuration of gaming machines The overall configuration of the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 1) will be briefly described. The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a gaming board 90. The gaming board 90 is made of a substantially square piece of plywood, and is provided with a guide rail 903 in a substantially arc shape, which constitutes a path for guiding gaming balls launched by operating a launching device 908 (launching handle) to a gaming area 902. The gaming area 902 is provided with a starting area 904, a big winning area 906, an outlet 907, and the like.

[0010] A display area 911 of the display device 91 is visible through an opening 901 formed in the game board 90. In some of the drawings, the shape of the display area 911 that is exposed and not covered by the game board 90 is shown in a simplified form (shown as a square), but the size and shape of this part can be changed as appropriate.

[0011] In addition, a plurality of game pegs are provided in the game area 902 as obstacles that change the way the game ball flows down when the game ball collides with them. The game ball flowing down the game area 902 changes into various ways depending on the conditions when it collides with the game pegs.

[0012] In such a gaming machine 1, gaming balls are launched toward the gaming area 902 by operating the launching device 908. When a gaming ball flowing down the gaming area 902 enters a winning area such as the starting area 904 or the big winning area 906, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out by the payout device.

[0013] 2) Gameplay (Specifications) 2-1) Win / lose lottery (special design lottery) When the gaming ball enters the starting area 904, a numerical value (hereinafter sometimes referred to as winning / losing lottery information) is obtained from a random number source. A winning / losing lottery (generally referred to as a special symbol (special symbol) lottery, etc.) is executed using this numerical value. Basically, as with well-known gaming machines, the numerical value is compared with a predetermined judgment value (winning / losing lottery table) to derive the winning / losing lottery result. The numerical value is also used to determine what kind of effect will be executed as a variable effect (described below).

[0014] In this embodiment, the starting area 904 includes a first starting area 904a and a second starting area 904b that is located at a different position from the first starting area 904a (see FIG. 1). When a gaming ball enters the first starting area 904a, first winning / losing lottery information is acquired, and a first winning / losing lottery (special drawing 1 lottery) is executed based on the acquired information. When a gaming ball enters the second starting area 904b, second winning / losing lottery information is acquired, and a second winning / losing lottery (special drawing 2 lottery) is executed based on the acquired information. The first starting area 904a is an area into which a gaming ball enters by firing the gaming ball so that it flows down the left side of the gaming area 902 (the left side of the display area 911) (performing a so-called "left shot"). The second start area 904b is an area into which a game ball enters when the game ball is shot (a so-called "right hit") so as to flow down the right side of the game area 902 (the right side of the display area 911). In this embodiment, the game ball is set so that a "right hit" will not cause the game ball to enter the first start area 904a, and a "left hit" will not cause the game ball to enter the second start area 904b.

[0015] In this embodiment, the result of the win / loss lottery is either a "small win" or a "loss." In other words, when the win / loss lottery results in a "win," it is always a "small win" and there is no "jackpot." However, as will be described later, all small wins lead to the acquisition of a jackpot unless an abnormality occurs, so essentially, a small win = a jackpot. Therefore, in the following explanation, "jackpot" in terms of jackpot probability, winning a jackpot, etc., strictly refers to a small win. Various effects, etc. are designed to make winning a small win seem like winning a jackpot. Note that a gaming machine that can acquire a jackpot via such a small win is called a "type-two" gaming machine. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the result of the win / loss lottery does not result in a jackpot and a jackpot can be acquired (so-called direct wins do not occur), so it does not have "type-one" gameplay (it is not a "type-one-type-two mixed" gaming machine). However, with the exception of configurations that can only be realized with "type two" machines, the technical matters described below can also be applied to "type one" gaming machines and "type one and two mixed" gaming machines.

[0016] In this embodiment, the probability of a small win in the first win / loss lottery (= (effective) jackpot probability) is 1 / 319 (anything else is a loss). In addition, the probability of a small win in the second win / loss lottery (= (effective) jackpot probability) is 1 / 47 (anything else is a loss). Therefore, the second win / loss lottery can be said to be a more advantageous lottery (high-probability lottery) for the player than the first win / loss lottery. Details will be described later, but the normal gaming state is a state in which the aim is to win a jackpot through the first win / loss lottery, and the specific gaming state is a state in which the aim is to win a jackpot through the second win / loss lottery, so the specific gaming state is a more advantageous gaming state than the normal gaming state.

[0017] 2-2) Winning games When a jackpot is won, a jackpot game is executed. A jackpot game involves one or more unit games (referring to a single "round" of play; hereinafter, this may be referred to as a "round") in which the jackpot area 906 (normally closed) is opened until a predetermined condition is met. A single unit game ends (the jackpot area 906 is closed) when either the winning condition of C balls entering the jackpot area 906 or the time condition of a predetermined time elapses is met. In this embodiment, C=10 (the value of C is generally referred to as the "count"). In each unit game, if balls are continuously launched toward the jackpot area 906, the winning condition is almost certain to be met before the time condition is met. In other words, if the game is played as instructed, at least 10 balls will enter the jackpot area 906 in one unit game. In this embodiment, when one gaming ball enters the big prize area, the payout (number of prize balls) is 15, so at least 150 prize balls can be obtained in one unit game (the number of prize balls can increase if a so-called over-winning occurs). The more unit games (number of rounds) included in a big prize game, the greater the profit (expected profit) the player can obtain in that big prize game. In this embodiment, the big prize area 906 is located to the right of the play area 902 (see Figure 1), and the player plays so that the gaming ball enters the right side of the play area 902 (so-called "right hit").

[0018] As described above, in this embodiment, a jackpot can be won via a small jackpot. When a small jackpot is won, a small jackpot game is executed. In the small jackpot game, the large prize area 906 is opened, and the bonus area 10 (see FIG. 2) located within the large prize area 906 is also opened. The letter "V" is marked near the bonus area 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2), and this "V" is used to indicate the bonus area 10 to the player. The bonus area 10 is normally closed, but is temporarily opened when a small jackpot is won. The large prize area 906 has two exit areas, and a gaming ball that enters the large prize area 906 passes through one of the two exit areas. One of the two exit areas is designated as the bonus area 10 (see FIG. 2). Each of the exit areas is equipped with a sensor, and a gaming ball that passes through one of the exit areas is treated as having entered the large prize area 906. In other words, the gaming ball that enters the bonus area 10 also enters the big prize area 906.

[0019] The condition for winning a jackpot is that a gaming ball enters the bonus area 10 during the small jackpot game (to win a jackpot, it is sufficient for one gaming ball to enter the bonus area 10). In the following explanation, the entry of a gaming ball into the bonus area 10 is also referred to as a "V entry" ("V entry = winning a jackpot (guaranteed jackpot)"). Note that the bonus area 10 may be provided outside the big prize area 906. A small jackpot game is considered to be one unit game of the jackpot game won through that game. For example, a 10-round jackpot (a jackpot in which 10 unit games are executed) that results from a small jackpot is defined as follows: the small jackpot game (a game in which the large prize area 906 is opened and the bonus area 10 is opened) is the first round of play, and the subsequent opening of the large prize area 906, which is executed as the jackpot game, is executed as rounds 2 to 10 of play (if a game ball does not enter the bonus area 10, a so-called "break" occurs, and the games in rounds 2 to 10 are not executed, and only the small jackpot game ends). Like the unit games that constitute a jackpot game, the small jackpot game ends when at least one of the time condition and the winning condition (10 balls are won in this embodiment) is met. If game balls are continuously fired, the winning condition will be met first, so in the small jackpot game, the same prize balls can be obtained as in one unit game.

[0020] In this embodiment, in a small win game, the bonus area 10 is opened together with the big win area 906, and the time during which the bonus area 10 is opened is long enough to allow the gaming ball to enter the bonus area 10. The bonus area 10 is located on the right side of the gaming area 902, and in order to allow the gaming ball to enter the bonus area 10, the player must hit the ball to the right. If the player continues to hit the ball to the right, the gaming ball will almost certainly enter the bonus area 10 (see FIG. 2(b)). When a small win is won, an instruction to hit the ball to the right is displayed in the display area 911 (see FIG. 2(c)), so the player only needs to follow the instruction. The system is set up so that the gaming ball will almost certainly enter the bonus area 10 even if the player starts hitting the ball to the right about 10 seconds after the instruction is displayed. In this way, when a small win game is executed due to a small win, the game ball will enter the bonus area 10 as long as the game is played according to instructions (barring any unexpected abnormality (power outage or malfunction)), so essentially, "small win = big win" (a small win leads to a big win). In this embodiment, in unit games (from the second round onwards) that constitute a big win game other than a small win game, the bonus area 10 is in a closed state (see FIG. 2(a)).

[0021] 2-3) Decorative designs The winning / losing lottery result is announced by the decorative symbols 80 (see FIG. 3) displayed in the display area 911. In this embodiment, three decorative symbol groups 80g are set, each containing multiple types of decorative symbols 80. Specifically, the three decorative symbol groups are a left decorative symbol group 80gL displayed on the left side of the display area 911, a right decorative symbol group 80gR displayed on the right side, and a center decorative symbol group 80gC displayed between the left decorative symbol group 80gL and the right decorative symbol group 80gR. The lottery result is announced by a combination of three decorative symbols 80 selected and displayed from each decorative symbol group 80g. The effect from when the three decorative symbol groups 80g start to change until the change stops and a combination indicating the winning / losing lottery result is displayed is the during-change effect (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as "change" or "rotation"). Note that the decorative symbols 80 are not shown in some drawings. In this embodiment, decorative symbols 80 containing the same number are considered to be of the same type (decorative symbols 80 containing different types of numbers are considered to be of different types).

[0022] In this embodiment, when the result of the lottery is a win (small win), a winning combination consisting of three of the same type of decorative patterns 80 is displayed. As described above, in this embodiment, the setting is such that "winning a small win = winning a big win," so it can be said that the display of three of the same type of decorative patterns 80 essentially indicates winning a big win. If the result of the lottery is a loss, a combination that is not a winning combination (a losing combination) is displayed.

[0023] Although not explained further, a pattern (another pattern) other than the decorative pattern 80 may be displayed, and the result of the lottery may be indicated by the other pattern. The other pattern may be displayed small near the outer edge of the display area 911, or may be displayed outside the display area 911 (a lighting pattern of a lamp or the like displayed outside the display area 911). However, an ordinary player can enjoy the game by looking at the decorative pattern 80 and various effects executed in the display area 911 without being aware of the appearance of the other pattern.

[0024] 2-4) On hold When a gaming ball enters the starting area 904 and new winning / losing lottery information is acquired, if a variable effect corresponding to the winning / losing lottery information acquired earlier is being executed (if the decorative pattern 80 is changing), the newly acquired winning / losing lottery information is stored in a storage means (not shown) as reserved information (reserved). In this embodiment, the maximum number of first reserved information (special chart 1 reserved) acquired as the first winning / losing lottery information is four, and the maximum number of second reserved information (special chart 2 reserved) acquired as the second winning / losing lottery information is four.

[0025] The reserved information stored in the storage means may be displayed in the display area 911 as reserved symbols 70 (see FIG. 3). In this embodiment, the reserved symbols 70 are divided into during-change reserved symbols 71 and pre-change reserved symbols 72. The during-change reserved symbols 71 indicate the presence of winning / losing lottery information for which the during-change performance for the corresponding winning / losing lottery result has not started, but the notification of the winning / losing lottery result has not been completed (the during-change performance has not ended). Note that, although the winning / losing lottery information does not strictly correspond to reserved information, it is generally referred to as "the relevant pending change" or the like, and therefore the symbol indicating the presence of the winning / losing lottery information is referred to as the during-change reserved symbol 71. The pre-change reserved symbol 72 indicates the presence of winning / losing lottery information (reserved information) for which the during-change performance for the corresponding winning / losing lottery result has not started.

[0026] In this embodiment, in a state where the game ball should be launched aiming at the first starting area 904a (a state where it should be hit from the left; a normal game state described in detail below), a reserved symbol (special symbol 1 reserved) indicating the presence of first winning / losing lottery information (first reserved information) is displayed. In a state where the game ball should be launched aiming at the second starting area 904b (a state where it should be hit from the right; a specific game state described in detail below), a reserved symbol (special symbol 2 reserved) indicating the presence of second winning / losing lottery information (second reserved information) is displayed. Note that in some drawings, the reserved symbol 70 is omitted from illustration.

[0027] When both the first winning / losing lottery information (first reserved information) and the second winning / losing lottery information (second reserved information) are stored in the storage means, the effect during fluctuation based on the second winning / losing lottery information is executed with priority (the result of the second winning / losing lottery is announced with priority), and the effect during fluctuation based on the first winning / losing lottery information does not start (the result of the first winning / losing lottery is not announced) until all the second winning / losing lottery information stored in the storage means is exhausted. In other words, the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is what is called "special chart 2 (reserved) priority consumption."

[0028] 2-5) Game status 2-5-1) Normal gaming state and specific gaming state The gaming state in which a player plays with the aim of winning a jackpot (by firing a gaming ball at the starting area 904) is roughly divided into a normal gaming state and a specific gaming state (see Figure 4). Basically, the specific gaming state is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state because it is easier to win a jackpot and easier for the gaming ball to enter the starting area 904 in the specific gaming state than in the normal gaming state.

[0029] The normal gaming state is a gaming state in which the gaming ball should be aimed at the first starting area 904a and fired (a "left shot" should be performed). If the player performs a "right shot" in the normal gaming state, the player will not be able to enjoy the intended profit (the profit that can be enjoyed will be significantly reduced compared to a "left shot"). Therefore, if a "right shot" is detected, the player is urged to perform a "left shot." As mentioned above, the winning probability (small win probability) of the first win / lose lottery, which is executed on the condition that the gaming ball enters the first starting area 904a, is 1 / 319, so the normal gaming state can be said to be a gaming state in which the player is playing with the aim of winning a jackpot with a jackpot probability of 1 / 319.

[0030] On the other hand, the specific gaming state is a gaming state in which the gaming ball should be aimed at the second starting area 904b and fired (a "right hit" should be performed). If the player "hits left" in the specific gaming state, the player will not be able to enjoy the intended profit (the profit that can be enjoyed will be significantly reduced compared to a "right hit"). Therefore, if a "left hit" is detected, the player is urged to "hit right." As mentioned above, the winning probability (small win probability) of the second win / lose lottery, which is executed on the condition that the gaming ball enters the second starting area 904b, is 1 / 47, so the normal gaming state can be said to be a gaming state in which the player plays with the aim of winning a jackpot with a 1 / 47 chance.

[0031] 2-5-2) Opening / closing mode (time-saving or not) The opening and closing modes are a low opening and closing mode and a high opening and closing mode. The low opening and closing mode and the high opening and closing mode differ in the ease with which the second starting area 904b (see FIG. 1) opens. The second starting area 904b is an area that is normally closed (a gaming ball cannot enter when closed), and is an area that opens when a player wins an opening lottery (a lottery different from a win / lose lottery (special symbol lottery) that is executed when a gaming ball enters the starting area 904, and is generally referred to as a normal lottery, a normal symbol (regular symbol) lottery, etc.) (the so-called "electric chute (area)").

[0032] The opening lottery is executed based on a numerical value (opening lottery information) acquired when a gaming ball enters the normal area 905. In this embodiment, the normal area 905 is provided to the right of the gaming area 902 (see FIG. 1). A gaming ball enters the normal area 905 relatively easily by hitting to the right. The method of notifying the result of the opening lottery can be performed in the same way as in a general gaming machine, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. In this embodiment, the notification is made by the lighting pattern of a lamp provided outside the display area 911 (the lighting pattern of the lamp corresponds to the "normal symbol"). Note that if a gaming ball newly enters the normal area 905 while the notification of the result of the opening lottery has not been completed (while the normal symbol is changing), the opening lottery information is stored in a storage means (not shown). In this embodiment, the maximum number of opening lottery information that can be stored is four (the maximum value of the normal symbol reserve = 4).

[0033] The probability of winning the opening lottery when the high opening mode is set is higher than the probability of winning the opening lottery when the low opening mode is set. The probability of winning the opening lottery when the low opening mode is set may be 0%. Furthermore, the probability of winning the opening lottery when the high opening mode is set may be 100%. In this embodiment, even if the opening lottery is won when the low opening mode is set, the opening time of the second starting area 904b is extremely short, making it virtually impossible for a gaming ball to enter the second starting area 904b. Therefore, when the low opening mode is set, left-handed play (play aiming at the first starting area 904a) is recommended. On the other hand, when the high opening mode is set, it is easy to win the opening lottery, and the opening time of the second starting area 904b is sufficiently long. Therefore, when the high opening mode is set, right-handed play (play aiming at the second starting area 904b) is recommended, and if right-handed play is performed continuously, the gaming ball will frequently enter the second starting area 904b.

[0034] In this embodiment, the normal game state is a state in which the low opening / closing mode is set. The specific game state is a state in which the high opening / closing mode is set. Since the high opening / closing mode is generally referred to as a "time-saving (state)," the normal game state can be said to be a "no time-saving (state)" and the specific game state can be said to be a "time-saving (state)." In the following description, the low opening / closing mode may be referred to as a "no time-saving (state)" and the high opening / closing mode as a "time-saving (state)." Furthermore, the number of win / loss lotteries (second win / loss lotteries in this embodiment) that are the conditions for ending the high opening / closing mode (time-saving) may also be referred to as the number of time-saving times. In this embodiment, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out when a game ball enters the start area 904 (first start area 904a, second start area 904b) (the start area 904 is a prize-winning area). Therefore, the rate at which the number of balls in the player's possession decreases (the number of prize balls per number of game balls fired) is slower in the high opening / closing mode than in the low opening / closing mode. That is, the low opening / closing mode is a "low base state" in which the base is relatively low, and the high opening / closing mode is a "high base state" in which the base is relatively high.

[0035] 2-5-3) Types of specific game states In this embodiment, the specific game states (high opening / closing modes) are provided as a first specific game state, a second specific game state, and a special specific game state. The various specific game states have different termination conditions for terminating the high opening / closing mode. The termination conditions are established when either the "variable number condition" is established when the number of second winning / losing lotteries executed since the start reaches a specified value (a predetermined number of time-saving times), or the "small win condition" is established when the number of small wins won since the start reaches a specified value (the earlier of the variable number condition and the small win condition).

[0036] Note that, since winning a jackpot and playing a jackpot game means that the game state is no longer one in which the player aims to win a jackpot, winning a jackpot can also be considered a de facto termination condition for the high opening / closing mode. Furthermore, since each specific game state is a game state to which the player transitions after the corresponding jackpot game ends, the "start" point of each specific game state (high opening / closing mode) refers to the end point of the corresponding jackpot game. In other words, when the player transitions to a specific game state after the end of a jackpot game, the variable number condition and small win condition are reset. However, the variable number condition is reset only when a "jackpot" is won (when the game ball enters the bonus area 10), and is not reset simply by winning a "small win."

[0037] The first specific gaming state is a state in which the variable number condition is that the second winning / losing lottery is executed 70 times after the start of the first specific gaming state. In other words, the number of time-saving times is set to 70. As mentioned above, the probability of the second winning / losing lottery being a winning (small winning) is 1 / 47, so the probability of winning the second winning / losing lottery before the first specific gaming state starts and there are 70 consecutive losing wins (before the high opening / closing mode ends) is approximately 78%.

[0038] The small win condition for the first specific gaming state is to win "two" small wins after the start of the first specific gaming state. In other words, the high opening / closing mode does not end even if a small win is won once after the start of the first specific gaming state. Note that the number of small wins required to achieve the small win condition for the first specific gaming state needs to be two or more.

[0039] The second specific gaming state is one in which the variable number condition is that the second win / loss lottery is executed 1,000 times after the start of the game. In other words, the number of time-saving times is set to 1,000. As mentioned above, the probability of the second win / loss lottery being a win (small win) is 1 / 47, making it unlikely that the second specific gaming state will be initiated and result in 1,000 consecutive losses without winning the second win / loss lottery. In other words, the second specific gaming state can be said to be a state in which the high-speed mode is virtually guaranteed to continue until the next small win (winning a big win via a small win). In this way, a specific gaming state in which the number of time-saving times is set so that the probability of ending without winning the win / loss lottery is astronomically low (less than 0.1%) is considered to be a state in which the next big win is virtually guaranteed before the end of the specific gaming state (high-speed mode) (the same applies to the special specific gaming state described below). Unlike this embodiment, the second specific gaming state may be designed to continue until the next big win (the number of time-saving times = ∞). Such a specific game state that continues until the next big win is acquired is also considered to be a state in which "the acquisition of the next big win is virtually guaranteed" before the specific game state (high opening / closing mode) ends.

[0040] The condition for the small win of the second specific gaming state is to win a small win "once" after the start of the second specific gaming state. In other words, after the start of the second specific gaming state, the high opening / closing mode ends when a small win is won once.

[0041] The special specific gaming state is a state in which the variable number condition is that the second win / loss lottery must be executed 1,000 times after the start of the state. In other words, the number of time-saving periods is set to 1,000. As mentioned above, the probability of the second win / loss lottery being a win (small win) is 1 / 47, so it is unlikely that the special specific gaming state will be initiated and the second win / loss lottery will result in a loss 1,000 times in a row without a win. In other words, the special specific gaming state can be said to be a state in which the high opening / closing mode is guaranteed to continue until the next small win (winning a big win via a small win).

[0042] The condition for the special specific game state is to win a small win "two times" after the start of the special specific game state. In other words, after the start of the special specific game state, winning one small win will not end the high opening / closing mode. Note that the number of small wins required to establish the small win condition for the special specific game state is two or more.

[0043] 2-5-4) As mentioned above, if we express the normal game state and the special game state in terms of the probability of winning the lottery (the actual probability of winning the jackpot) and whether or not there is time reduction, then (a) Normal game state: Low probability, no time reduction (b) Specific game state: "High probability, time-saving" This means that...

[0044] In addition, if various specific game states are expressed by the probability of winning the lottery (actual probability of winning), the presence or absence of time reduction (number of time reductions), and the number of small wins that will end the high opening / closing mode, (b-1) First specific game state: "High probability, time-saving (70 times), 2 small wins" (b-2) Second specific game state: "High probability, time-saving (1000 times), 1 small win" (b-3) Special specific game state: "High probability, time-saving (1000 times), 2 small wins" This means that...

[0045] 2-6) Types of jackpots In this embodiment, the types of jackpots are a normal jackpot and a special jackpot. A normal jackpot is a jackpot that transitions to a normal game state after the end of a jackpot game (after the end of the last unit game that constitutes a jackpot game). A special jackpot is a jackpot that transitions to a special game state after the end of a jackpot game. Since a special game state (high probability, with time reduction) is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game state (low probability, no time reduction), in terms of the game state after the end of a jackpot game (excluding the number of rounds), it can be said that a special jackpot is more advantageous to the player than a normal jackpot.

[0046] There are three types of specific jackpots: a first specific jackpot, a second specific jackpot, and a special specific jackpot. A first specific jackpot is a jackpot that transitions to a first specific game state after the jackpot game ends. A second specific jackpot is a jackpot that transitions to a second specific game state after the jackpot game ends. A special specific jackpot is a jackpot that transitions to a special specific game state after the jackpot game ends. Of the specific game states, the special specific game state is the most advantageous game state (the special specific game state is the most advantageous game state of all game states), so in terms of the game state after the jackpot game ends (disregarding the number of rounds), the special specific jackpot is the most valuable of the specific jackpots.

[0047] In this embodiment, the normal jackpot and the first specific jackpot are 2 rounds (2R) or 10 rounds (10R) jackpots. The second specific jackpot and the special specific jackpot are all 10 rounds (10R) jackpots. Note that, except as specifically explained below, the number of rounds can be changed as appropriate.

[0048] 2-7) Game flow 2-7-1) "Number cut type" (first specific game state) and "loop type" (second specific game state) Below, we will explain the flow of play on the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment, although some of the explanation will overlap with the above. The flow explained below is for the case where no abnormalities occur and the player plays as instructed (hitting left when he should hit left, and hitting right when he should hit right).

[0049] In the initial state after a predetermined reset operation (which can be performed by the gaming establishment (a gaming establishment staff member) and not by the player) is performed, the game is in a normal gaming state (the gaming state that is most disadvantageous to the player). In this embodiment, the RAM clear operation corresponds to the reset operation, and turning the power off / on is not a reset operation. However, it is also possible to configure the game so that turning the power off / on is the reset operation.

[0050] In the normal game mode, the player plays with a left-handed shot. When the gaming ball enters the first starting area 904a, first lottery information is acquired. If a small jackpot is won in the first win / lose lottery (special drawing 1 lottery) based on the first lottery information (first win / lose lottery information), a small jackpot game is executed, and a jackpot can be won by the gaming ball entering the bonus area 10 (winning a V) during the small jackpot game. The type of jackpot won through the first win / lose lottery is determined by referring to the jackpot allocation table for the first win / lose lottery. In this embodiment, jackpots won through the first win / lose lottery (jackpots won through the first win / lose lottery) are allocated as follows: 40% to a normal jackpot (2R), 10% to a first specific jackpot (2R), and 50% to a special specific jackpot (10R) (see FIG. 6(a)). In the case of a normal jackpot, the game state shifts to the normal game state after the jackpot game ends (see FIG. 4), and the player will play again in the normal game state, aiming to win a jackpot.

[0051] If a first specific jackpot is achieved, the game transitions to the first specific game state (see Figure 4). In the first specific game state, the player plays a right-hand shot. When the game ball enters the second starting area 904b, second lottery information is acquired. If a small jackpot is won in the second win / loss lottery (special chart 2 lottery) based on the second lottery information (second win / loss lottery information), a small jackpot game is executed, and the jackpot can be won by the game ball entering the bonus area 10 (V entry) during the small jackpot game. The first specific game state is a "high probability with time reduction (70 times)" state. Therefore, this is a state in which the player plays with the aim of winning the jackpot by winning (small jackpot) in the second win / loss lottery (70 times in a row) before the second win / loss lottery results in a loss 70 times in a row. In other words, if the second winning / losing lottery result is a loss 70 times in a row, the game will transition to the normal game state (however, first the game will transition to the remaining reserve chance state (details will be described later)), so in order to avoid transitioning to the normal game state, the game state is played with the aim of winning a jackpot before the second winning / losing lottery result is a loss 70 times in a row. This type of gameplay, in which a state in which it is easy to win a jackpot continues until a specified number of losses (70 times in this embodiment) occur in a row, is generally referred to as a "number-cut" or "ST" (hereinafter referred to as a "number-cut type").

[0052] The type of jackpot obtained through the second win / loss lottery (special chart 2 lottery) is determined based on the jackpot allocation table for the second win / loss lottery. Regarding the second win / loss lottery, the table referenced differs depending on whether the jackpot is in high-speed mode (with time reduction) or not (without time reduction) when the jackpot is obtained. In other words, the "jackpot allocation" differs depending on whether the jackpot is in the "time reduction" mode or the "no time reduction" mode when the jackpot is obtained. In addition, in this embodiment, the time when the game ball enters the bonus area 10 in a small win game, i.e., the time when the V win is made, is the "time when the jackpot is obtained" (the time when the jackpot is determined to be obtained). Therefore, the "jackpot allocation" differs depending on whether the V win is in the "time reduction" mode or the "no time reduction" mode (see FIG. 6(b)).

[0053] Since the first specific game state requires two small wins (see Figure 5), the high opening / closing mode (time-saving mode) does not end (the small win condition is not met) when the first small win (one small win) is won after the first specific game state is entered. Therefore, when a V win is made in the small win game executed after the first small win (when a jackpot is determined), the game is in a "time-saving mode." If no abnormalities occur and the player continuously fires game balls aiming at the bonus area 10 as instructed, a V win will almost certainly be made in the first small win game (no jackpot break will occur), and the type of jackpot won in the first specific game state is determined by referring to the "time-saving mode" table. Therefore, the distribution of jackpots won in the first specific game state is basically (unless a jackpot break occurs), with 95% being first specific jackpots (10R) and 5% being special specific jackpots (10R) (see Figure 6(b-1)).

[0054] If the second winning / losing lottery result is a losing result ("losing the time-saving win") for 70 consecutive times after the start of the first specific game state, the variable number condition is met, and the first specific game state ends and transitions to the normal game state. However, immediately after the end of the first specific game state, the second reserved information (special chart 2 reserved) remains in the storage means (hereinafter, the second reserved information remaining at the time the first specific game state ends may be referred to as the remaining reserved), so a "high probability" (1 / 47) second winning / losing lottery is executed for the remaining reserved information (hereinafter, the high probability lottery for the remaining reserved information is referred to as the "remaining reserved chance") (see Figure 4).

[0055] In this embodiment, in the 70th losing variation (final variation of time-saving) after the start of the first specific game state, before the variation ends, an effect (reserved storage instruction effect) (see Figure 7(a)) is executed to prompt the player to set the second reserved information to four (hereinafter, the state in which four second reserved information is stored may be referred to as "reserved full"). When the reserved information is full, an effect (reserved storage completion effect) (see Figure 7(b)) indicating this is executed. Note that if the reserved information is already full at the specified point in time of the final variation of time-saving, the reserved storage instruction effect may not be generated.

[0056] Since the reserved storage instruction effect described above is executed at the final time of the time-saving final change, normally, four pieces of second reserved information remain when the first specific game state ends. In other words, there is a right to four second lottery draws (high probability lotteries) with a winning probability of 1 / 47. This is the remaining reserved chance. In other words, when the remaining reserved chance is executed, strictly speaking, it is already normal game state, but because there are four opportunities for high probability lotteries remaining, an effect corresponding to the "remaining reserved chance" is executed to make it appear as if the state is still advantageous (not normal game state) until it ends.

[0057] The fluctuation effect (four fluctuation effects) executed during the remaining reservation chance is a special effect that is not executed when there is no remaining reservation chance. In this embodiment, a residual reservation chance effect called "XX chance" (see FIG. 8(a)) is executed. During the residual reservation chance, the result of the winning / losing lottery corresponding to the second reserved information (second winning / losing lottery information) that was acquired first is announced. In this embodiment, if the winning / losing lottery result is a winning (small winning), an effect is executed that leads to a success result (see FIG. 8(b) → (c-1)) indicating that the situation is favorable to the player, and if it is a losing, an effect is executed that leads to a failure result (see FIG. 8(b) → (c-2)) indicating that the situation is unfavorable to the player (note that a successful result includes a so-called reversal pattern in which a false failure is initially assumed but is then reversed). If the result is a success, a small winning game is executed. If the result is a failure, the next fluctuation effect is started. If all four of the second lotteries (high probability lotteries) result in a loss, the remaining reserve chance ends and the machine transitions to a state where left-hand play is encouraged. In other words, the machine will go through the first lottery to aim for a jackpot.

[0058] Although details will be described later, the jackpot acquired by winning the second lottery during the remaining reservation chance will be either a normal jackpot or a second specific jackpot. In this embodiment, which jackpot has been won is notified by a battle effect (see FIG. 9) during the jackpot game, and the name of the jackpot (benefit) that collectively includes the normal jackpot and the second specific jackpot is called a "battle bonus." Therefore, during fluctuations in the remaining reservation chance, an effect is executed using an image representing the battle bonus benefit (hereinafter referred to as a "benefit image"). Specifically, in each fluctuation, a benefit image is displayed at a stage where it is not clear whether the outcome will be a success or failure (see FIG. 8(b)). In this way, the player can know in advance that if the effect is successful, the player will acquire the benefit represented by the benefit image (the effect becomes easier to understand). If the result is successful, an image indicating that a favorable situation has been reached (in this embodiment, the word "SUCCESS") is displayed together with the bonus image that was displayed in the previous stage (stage of FIG. 8(b)) (see FIG. 8(c-1)), making it easy to understand that the bonus has been obtained. On the other hand, if the result is unsuccessful, an image indicating that a disappointing situation has been reached (in this embodiment, the word "FAIL") is displayed together with the bonus image that was displayed in the previous stage (stage of FIG. 8(b)) is not displayed (see FIG. 8(c-2)), making it easy to understand that the bonus has not been obtained.

[0059] If a player wins a small jackpot in the second lottery for the remaining reserve chance, a small jackpot game will be played (see Figure 9(a)). A jackpot can be won by winning a V in the small jackpot game. Here, the state in which the remaining reserve chance is played is a state in which the high opening / closing mode has already ended and there is no time reduction, and therefore, when the V wins, i.e., the point at which the jackpot is won, there is also no time reduction. Therefore, the type of jackpot won through the second lottery for the remaining reserve chance is determined by referring to the "no time reduction" table. In other words, the distribution of jackpots won through the remaining reserve chance is as follows: 79% are second specific jackpots (10R) and 21% are regular jackpots (10R) (see Figure 6(b-2)). When a player wins a second specific jackpot, the game transitions to the second specific game state after the jackpot game ends (see Figure 4). When a player wins a regular jackpot, the game transitions to the regular game state after the jackpot game ends (see Figure 4).

[0060] In this embodiment, whether a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot has been won is announced during the jackpot game after the V win. In this embodiment, which jackpot has been won is announced by a battle effect (see FIG. 9(b)). The battle effect leads to a winning ending (an ending advantageous to the player) in which the player's character wins (see FIG. 9(c-1)) or a losing ending (an ending disadvantageous to the player) (see FIG. 9(c-2)). (Note that a winning ending includes a so-called reversal pattern in which a player appears to have lost but then reverses the result.) If the jackpot won is a second specific jackpot, the winning ending is reached, and if it is a normal jackpot, the losing ending is reached. If the winning ending is reached, the second specific game state will begin after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, if the losing ending is reached, the game will transition to the normal game state after the jackpot game ends.

[0061] In addition, if a player wins a small jackpot in the first to third second win / loss lotteries of the four remaining reserve chances and wins a regular jackpot, a second win / loss lottery for the remaining second reserve information (any of the first to third win / loss lotteries) will be held after the regular jackpot (see (A) below in Figure 9(c-2)). For example, suppose a player wins the third second win / loss lottery from the start of the remaining reserve chance and wins a regular jackpot. In that case, after the regular jackpot game ends, a second win / loss lottery for the remaining second reserve information will be held. If the player wins the second win / loss lottery again and wins a second specific jackpot, the game will transition to the second specific game state after the jackpot game ends. In other words, the remaining reserve chance ends either when a second specific jackpot is won or when the fourth second win / loss lottery from the start of the remaining reserve chance ends. Therefore, even if a player wins a regular jackpot in the first to third second win / loss lotteries, the game may transition to the second specific game state after the remaining reserve chance if the player wins a second specific jackpot in the remaining second win / loss lottery.

[0062] If the fourth second lottery from the start of the remaining reservation chance ends in a loss, or if the jackpot obtained after that is a regular jackpot even if it is a win, the state will shift to one where left-hand play is encouraged. In other words, the state will shift to one where the aim is to win the jackpot after the first lottery.

[0063] If a second specific jackpot is won during the remaining reserve chance, the game will transition to the second specific gaming state (see Figure 4). In the second specific gaming state, the number of time-saving cycles is 1000, and it is virtually guaranteed that the next jackpot will be won before the high opening / closing mode ends. Therefore, in the second specific gaming state, the losing variations are rapidly consumed until a small jackpot is won. Then, after winning a small jackpot in the second winning / losing lottery, the jackpot can be won.

[0064] Here, the second specific game state (unlike the first specific game state) requires a single small win (see Figure 5), and therefore the high opening / closing mode (time-saving mode) ends upon the first (first) small win after the second specific game state begins. Therefore, when a V win is achieved in the small win game (when a jackpot is determined) following the first small win, the game is in a "no time-saving" state. If no abnormalities occur and the player continuously fires game balls aiming at the bonus area 10 as instructed, a V win will almost certainly occur in the first small win game (no jackpot break). Therefore, the type of jackpot won in the second specific game state is determined by referring to the "no time-saving" table. Therefore, the distribution of jackpots won in the first specific game state is basically (if a jackpot break does not occur), with 79% of the jackpots being second specific jackpots (10R) and 21% being regular jackpots (10R) (see Figure 6(b-2)). This distribution is the same as the distribution of the jackpot won during the remaining reserve chance.

[0065] In this way, the second specific gaming state is a state in which the next jackpot is virtually guaranteed, and if that jackpot becomes a second specific jackpot with a 79% probability, the game will transition back to the second specific gaming state. In other words, once the game transitions to the second specific gaming state, the advantageous gaming state (high probability and high opening / closing mode) that is guaranteed to continue until the next jackpot will loop with a predetermined probability, resulting in a "loop type" game.

[0066] If a normal jackpot is won in the second specific gaming state, the game transitions to the normal gaming state after the jackpot game ends. In this embodiment, the game transitions to the "remaining reservation chance" even after the normal jackpot game won in the second specific gaming state ends. In order to transition to such a remaining reservation chance, the game must be in a state where four second reservation information items are stored (reservation full state) at the end of the second specific gaming state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the following control is performed in the second specific gaming state.

[0067] As described above, the second specific gaming state is a state in which the next big win is virtually guaranteed, and therefore, a loss variation in which the second win / loss lottery result is a loss is rapidly consumed. Then, in a win variation in which the win / loss lottery result is a win (small win), an effect to accumulate reserves (reserve storage instruction effect) is executed (reserve storage instruction effect is not executed in a loss variation) (see FIG. 10(a)). In other words, unlike a loss variation, a win variation has a relatively long fluctuation time, ensuring sufficient time for the second reserve information to be filled up. After the reserve storage instruction effect, an effect indicating that the reserve is full (reserve storage completion effect) is executed when the reserve becomes full (see FIG. 10(b)). Note that these reserve storage instruction effect and reserve storage completion effect may be the same as or different from those executed in the final time-saving variation of the first specific gaming state described above. After that, it is announced that the win / loss lottery result is a win (small win) (see FIG. 10(c)). At this point, the player is not clearly informed whether the jackpot to be won is a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot. In other words, the reserved storage instruction effect described above will be executed in a variable win state regardless of whether the jackpot to be won in the future is a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot. Furthermore, in the jackpot game after the V win, whether the jackpot won is a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot will be announced in the battle effect, so in this embodiment, the name "Battle Bonus" is displayed (see FIG. 10(c)). In other words, the name "Battle Bonus" indicates that the jackpot won after the V win will be either a normal jackpot or a second specific jackpot.

[0068] The subsequent process is the same as when a small win is won in the remaining reserve chance. That is, in the small win game, an instruction is given to aim the game ball at the bonus area 10 and shoot it (see FIG. 9(a)). When a V is entered, a big win is won and the big win game starts. During the big win game, a battle effect (see FIGS. 9(b), (c-1), (c-2)) is performed to inform the player whether the won big win is a second special big win or a normal big win.

[0069] As mentioned above, the reserve storage instruction effect is executed during the winning variation in the second specific game state, so the reserve should already be full when the winning variation ends. Therefore, even if the jackpot obtained is a normal jackpot (the battle effect during the jackpot game ends in a loss) and the game transitions to the normal game state, the player is entitled to four second lottery draws (a remaining reserve chance occurs) (see (b) below in Figure 9(c-2)).

[0070] In addition, a case may occur in which the jackpot obtained is determined to be a second specific jackpot due to a winning variation. In such a case, after the second specific jackpot game ends, the game will transition to the second specific game state again (it will not transition to the remaining reserve chance), so the reserved storage instruction effect may not be executed due to a winning variation.

[0071] The remaining reservation chance is the same as that executed after the first specific game state (after the time reduction ends) described above, so the explanation will be omitted. The remaining reservation chance executed after the first specific game state and the remaining reservation chance executed after the second specific game state may be made different in effect (the form of the effect that notifies the winning / losing lottery result, the effect name, etc.).

[0072] As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment has a "number-limiting type" (ST type) gameplay in the first specific gaming state, in which the aim is to win a jackpot before a specified number of consecutive wins (70 in this embodiment) result in a loss, and a "loop type" gameplay in the second specific gaming state, in which the aim is for the next jackpot, which is virtually guaranteed to be won, to be a second specific jackpot (not a normal jackpot). In other words, it is a novel feature that allows players to experience both the "number-limiting type" (ST type) gameplay and the "loop type" gameplay in the same gaming machine (one model).

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, there is no possibility of transitioning from the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reservation chance) to the second specific gaming state (the second specific jackpot cannot be won in the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reservation chance)), and the condition for transitioning to the second specific gaming state is to win the second specific jackpot at the remaining reservation chance after the first specific gaming state has ended. Therefore, a player who starts playing from the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reservation chance) first aims to transition to the first specific gaming state, and when the first specific gaming state has ended, aims to win the right to transition to the second specific gaming state at the remaining reservation chance.

[0074] In particular, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a small jackpot and acquiring a first specific jackpot before the first specific gaming state ends due to a variable number condition (the time-saving feature ends) is approximately 78%, while the probability of winning a second specific jackpot in the second specific gaming state is approximately 79%. In other words, the so-called continuation rate is higher in the second specific gaming state than in the first specific gaming state. Therefore, it can be said that the second specific gaming state, which is relatively difficult to transition to, is a more valuable state than the first specific gaming state, which is relatively easy to transition to. On the other hand, it can be said that this is an interesting game feature in that winning a jackpot during a remaining reserved chance after the end of the first specific gaming state is the condition for transitioning to the second specific gaming state, which is a more advantageous gaming state.

[0075] 2-7-2) Special specific jackpot (special specific game state) The special specific jackpot is a jackpot that can be won by winning the first lottery in the normal game mode (excluding the remaining reserved chance), and by winning the second lottery in the first specific game mode, and all of them have 10 rounds (see Figures 4 and 6). Therefore, in one special specific jackpot game, if you hit the right button continuously to a certain extent so that the winning conditions are met before the time conditions are met in each unit game, you will be able to win a minimum of 15 x 10 x 10 (number of prize balls x count x number of rounds) = 1,500 prize balls.

[0076] The special specific game state that transitions after the special specific jackpot game ends has a time-saving count of 1000, and is a state in which it is virtually guaranteed that the next jackpot will be won before the high opening / closing mode ends. In other words, it is the same as the second specific game state in that the next jackpot is virtually guaranteed. Because the next jackpot is virtually guaranteed in this way, in the special specific game state, the loss fluctuations end quickly until a small jackpot is won. And, as with other game states, a jackpot can be won by winning a small jackpot.

[0077] Here, the special specific game state (unlike the second specific game state) has a small win condition of two (see Figure 5). Therefore, the first small win (one small win) after the first specific game state begins does not end the high opening / closing mode (time-saving mode) (the small win condition is not met). Therefore, when a V win is made in the small win game executed after the first small win (when a jackpot is determined), the state is "with time-saving mode." If no abnormalities occur and the player continuously fires game balls aiming at the bonus area 10 as instructed, a V win will almost certainly be made in the first small win game (a jackpot will not occur), and therefore the type of jackpot won in the special specific game state is determined by referring to the "with time-saving mode" table. Therefore, the distribution of jackpots obtained in the special specific game state will basically (unless a puncture occurs) be 95% first specific jackpot (10R) and 5% special specific jackpot (10R) (see Figure 6 (b-1)).

[0078] In other words, the second specific game state and the special specific game state share the commonality of virtually guaranteeing the next jackpot before the high-speed opening / closing mode ends. However, because the small jackpot condition in the second specific game state is one small jackpot, while the small jackpot condition in the special specific game state is two small jackpots, the reference table (jackpot allocation) for the jackpot is different: the former has no time reduction (see Figure 6(b-2)), while the latter has time reduction (see Figure 6(b-1)). One major difference is that the former has the potential for a normal jackpot, while the latter does not. From the player's perspective, the second specific game state carries the risk of transitioning to the normal game state after a jackpot game ends, while the special specific game state does not transition to the normal game state after a jackpot game ends (it transitions to either the first specific game state or the special specific game state).

[0079] In addition, the first specific jackpot and special specific jackpot that can be won in the special specific game state are both 10 rounds. In other words, even if you win a jackpot in the special specific game state, you will get a minimum of 15 x 10 x 10 (number of prize balls x count x number of rounds) = 1500 prize balls.

[0080] To summarize, the following can be said: If a special specific jackpot is won, the player is virtually guaranteed to receive a minimum of 3,000 prize balls, which is the sum of the minimum number of prize balls (1,500) that can be obtained in that special specific jackpot (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "early jackpot") and the minimum number of prize balls (1,500) that can be obtained in the jackpot that is obtained in the special specific game state to which the player transitions (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "later jackpot"). Furthermore, the specific game state (high probability and high opening / closing mode) continues even after the later jackpot game ends. Therefore, winning a special specific jackpot can be said to guarantee "3,000 prize balls" and "a specific game state (after the later jackpot game ends)."

[0081] In this embodiment, the name (title) of the special specific jackpot includes "3000," which indicates the minimum number of winning balls that can be obtained (see FIG. 11). When a special specific jackpot is won, the name is displayed at the beginning of the winning fluctuation that led to the special specific jackpot or the special specific jackpot game. In this embodiment, the special specific jackpot is named "Special Bonus 3000."

[0082] As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is equipped with a special specific jackpot as a premium jackpot that guarantees 3,000 prize balls. This special specific jackpot can be won (as a so-called first win) even in the normal game mode (excluding the remaining reserve chance), which contributes to promoting gameplay. In particular, in this embodiment, 50% of the jackpots won through the first win / lose lottery are special specific jackpots, and the probability of winning this jackpot immediately is quite high, which is highly effective in promoting gameplay. Additionally, since there is a possibility of winning a special specific jackpot even in the first specific game mode, which is a so-called "number-limited" game mode, it is expected that the number of balls won during consecutive wins will increase.

[0083] Furthermore, after a special specific jackpot (first jackpot) is won, the game does not transition to the normal game state after the end of the later jackpot game won in the special specific game state. In other words, the special specific game state is a game state where a "consecutive win" is confirmed. If the game transitioned to the normal game state after the end of the premium jackpot (later jackpot) that gives "3000" prize balls, the player would lose interest, so the game is designed to transition to the specific game state (high probability and high opening / closing mode) after the end of the later jackpot game.

[0084] The reason why the second specific gaming state can be a gaming state that realizes "loop type" gameplay and the special specific gaming state can be a "guaranteed consecutive win" gaming state is that the small win conditions (end conditions) are different between the second specific gaming state and the special specific gaming state, which have in common the fact that the next jackpot is virtually guaranteed during the high opening / closing mode (so-called long time reduction). In order to be a "loop type," there must be a possibility of winning a normal jackpot (possibility of falling back to the normal gaming state). On the other hand, in order to be a "guaranteed consecutive win," there must be no possibility of winning a normal jackpot (possibility of falling back to the normal gaming state). In other words, the allocation of jackpots must be different between the second specific gaming state and the special specific gaming state. Therefore, while both the second specific game state and the special specific game state are set to a long time reduction (1000 times time reduction in this embodiment), making the next jackpot virtually guaranteed, the conditions for small wins are made different; the former is set to a no time reduction state when a V is won (the ``no time reduction'' table is referenced), so that a normal jackpot is included in the jackpot allocation (see Figure 6(b-2)), and the latter is set to a time reduction state when a V is won (the ``with time reduction'' table is referenced), so that a normal jackpot is not included in the jackpot allocation (see Figure 6(b-1)).

[0085] 2-8) Control when a "puncture" occurs The first specific game state, which is the high opening / closing mode, has a small win condition of two times. Therefore, the high opening / closing mode (time reduction) does not end with the first small win after the first specific game state has started, and normally (if no abnormality occurs and the game is played as instructed), the V will be won in the first small win game, so the type of jackpot will be determined by the allocation of "time reduction" (see Figure 6 (b-1)).

[0086] However, if the V does not enter during the first small win game after the first specific game state has started due to an abnormality occurring or the player not playing as instructed (not hitting the right continuously), etc., it will result in a "puncture" and the player will not be able to win the big win (hereinafter, an event in which the game ball does not enter the bonus area 10 during a small win game (does not enter the V) will also be referred to as a non-entry event. The occurrence of a "non-entry event" = the occurrence of a "puncture").

[0087] However, the first specific game state is terminated when either the variable number condition (time-saving number of times) = 70 or the small win condition is satisfied twice. Therefore, even if a "rundown" occurs, if there are remaining time-saving times, the first specific game state will resume fluctuations after the small win game ends (fluctuations for the remaining time-saving number of times will begin). For example, if a player wins a small win in the second win / loss lottery 50 times after the start of the first specific game state but the small win game ends in a "rundown," fluctuations will begin after the small win game ends, informing the player of the result of the second win / loss lottery 51 times (the 51st spin of the time-saving game). In this embodiment, a distinction is made between the state before a rundown (non-entry event) occurs in the first specific game state (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the normal state) and the state after a rundown (non-entry event) occurs (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the special state). In the above example, the normal state is from the start of the first specific game state until the 50th spin, and the special state is from the 51st spin until the end of the first specific game state (see Figure 12).

[0088] When a "break" occurs in the first specific game state, information indicating a special state (hereinafter referred to as "special information") is stored in the storage means (see FIG. 12). In other words, if the storage means has special information stored, the current state is a special state, and if the storage means has no special information stored, the current state is a normal state. The storage means that stores the special information is preferably a non-volatile storage means that does not lose its memory even when the power is turned off. In other words, it is preferable that the information indicating a special state remains even if a power outage or the like occurs. In this embodiment, the special information is stored in the storage means of the main control board (main control circuit). Like a general gaming machine, the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment has a main control board (main control circuit) that performs the win / lose lottery and a sub-control board (sub-control circuit) that determines the content of the presentation to be executed based on the win / lose lottery results (the main control board and sub-control board themselves are well known, so detailed explanations will be omitted), but special information is stored in the storage means of the main control board (main control circuit), whose memory is not lost even when the power is turned off, rather than in the storage means of the sub-control board (sub-control circuit), whose memory is lost when the power is turned off.

[0089] In the normal state and the special state, the mode of the target effect that is executed when a predetermined condition is met is different as a part of the effect that constitutes the variable effect. In this embodiment, the target effects are "display of winning combination" and "display of bonus name (jackpot name)".

[0090] Regarding the "display of winning combinations," in the normal state, if the result of the lottery is a win, i.e., in the case of a winning fluctuation, a winning combination is finally announced by displaying three "7" decorative symbols 80 (see FIG. 13(a)). Since a small jackpot win in the normal state is the first small jackpot win since the start of the first specific game state, the high opening / closing mode (time-saving) does not end. Therefore, when a V is won, the type of jackpot is determined by the "time-saving" jackpot allocation (see FIG. 6(b-1)). Since the "time-saving" jackpot allocation does not normally result in a jackpot (after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a specific game state (first specific game state or special specific game state) and does not transition to the normal game state), a winning combination is announced by displaying three "7" decorative symbols 80. In the technical field of the present application, the "7" symbol is typically set as a valuable symbol, and many players consider it so. Since the "time-saving" jackpot allocation does not usually have the possibility of becoming a jackpot, the winning is notified by the decorative pattern 80 of "7", which is the valuable pattern.

[0091] In contrast, in the special state, when the result of the lottery is a win, i.e., when a win occurs, a set of three "7" decorative symbols 80 is not displayed. In this embodiment, a set of three decorative symbols 80 other than "7" is displayed (see FIG. 13(b)). It is also possible to configure the display of a set of three "6" decorative symbols 80 among the decorative symbols 80 other than "7" to be predetermined (for example, a configuration in which a set of three "6" decorative symbols 80 is predetermined). Since a small jackpot win in the special state is the second small jackpot win since the start of the first specific game state, the high opening / closing mode (time reduction) ends. Therefore, when a V is won, the type of jackpot is determined by the "no time reduction" jackpot allocation (see FIG. 6(b-2)). This "no time reduction" jackpot allocation has the potential to result in a normal jackpot. Therefore, as described above, if a win is announced by a match of three "7" decorative symbols 80, which are generally recognized as valuable symbols, there is a possibility that the game will fall into the normal game state even though the "7" decorative symbols 80 have been matched (which may lead to complaints from players). Therefore, in this embodiment, control is performed so that a symbol combination (a match of three decorative symbols 80 other than the "7" decorative symbol 80) different from the "match of three "7" decorative symbols 80" displayed in the normal state described above is displayed in the special state.

[0092] Regarding the "display of bonus name (jackpot name)," the name of the jackpot that can be obtained after winning V in the normal state is different from the name of the jackpot that can be obtained after winning V in the special state. The jackpot that can be obtained in the normal state (the jackpot that can be obtained in the jackpot allocation with "time-saving" (see FIG. 6(b-1))) is the first specific jackpot or the special specific jackpot. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the special specific jackpot is called "Special Bonus 3000" (see FIG. 13(a-2)). On the other hand, the first specific jackpot is called "Big Bonus" (see FIG. 13(a-1)). Therefore, when indicating a jackpot that will be obtained in the future (after winning V) due to a win fluctuation in the normal state, the names "Special Bonus 3000" or "Big Bonus" are used.

[0093] On the other hand, the jackpot that can be obtained in a special state (the jackpot that can be obtained in the "no time reduction" jackpot allocation (see Figure 6(b-2))) is either a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot. As mentioned above, which jackpot has been obtained is announced in the presentation (battle presentation) during the jackpot game (see Figure 9), and before this is known, the name "battle bonus" is used (the name "battle bonus" can be said to be a name that comprehensively indicates both second specific jackpots and normal jackpots) (see Figure 13(b)). Therefore, when indicating a jackpot that will be obtained in the future (after winning a V) due to a jackpot fluctuation in a special state, the name "battle bonus" is used.

[0094] In addition, in the special state, the above-mentioned reserved storage instruction effect may be executed by the winning variation. The jackpot acquired in the special state may become a normal jackpot, and in that case, in order to move to the remaining reserved chance with the second reserved information full, the reserved storage instruction effect is generated and an instruction to save reserved is issued.

[0095] As described above, in the first specific game state in this embodiment, the type of jackpot is normally (unless a puncture occurs) determined by the jackpot allocation with "time reduction" (see FIG. 6(b-1)). However, if a small jackpot is won again after a puncture occurs, the type of jackpot acquired from that small jackpot will be determined by the jackpot allocation without time reduction (see FIG. 6(b-2)). Because the jackpot allocation differs (the type of jackpot awarded differs) between the normal state where no puncture occurs and the special state where a puncture has already occurred, the mode of the target effect is determined after determining whether the state is normal or special. Note that, although the "display of winning combination" and the "display of bonus name" are the target effects in this embodiment, only one of them may be the target effect. Furthermore, the "display of winning combination" and the "display of bonus name" may occur at different times. Furthermore, other effects may be the target effects.

[0096] Whether the state is normal or special is determined by whether special information exists in the non-volatile storage means. Therefore, if a power outage or the like occurs in a special state and is then restored, the game will resume in the special state after the restoration. In other words, a situation will not occur in which the allocation of jackpots in the event of a jackpot being won changes before and after the occurrence of an abnormality such as a power outage (an abnormality such as a power outage will not affect the player's profits).

[0097] In this embodiment, the small win condition for the first specific gaming state is set to two small wins (see FIG. 5), but the small win condition may be set to three or more. The first specific gaming state is basically designed to apply the jackpot allocation for the "time-shortened" state (see FIG. 6(b-1)), so it is sufficient to ensure that the high opening / closing mode does not end with the first small win win after the start of the first specific gaming state. Even if the small win condition for the first specific gaming state is set to three or more, the high opening / closing mode does not end with one small win win, so the jackpot allocation for the "time-shortened" state will be applied. In other words, the first specific gaming state is sufficient as long as the high opening / closing mode ends with N small win wins (N is 2 or more).

[0098] The special state is a state in which the high opening / closing mode ends with the next small win (if a V win occurs in the next small win game, the jackpot allocation for the "no time reduction" state (see Figure 6(b-2)) is applied). Based on this, it can be said that the normal state is from the start of the first specific game state until N-1 small wins (until N-1 tire breaks occur), and the special state is after N-1 small wins (after N-1 tire breaks occur). For example, if the small win condition is three small wins (N=3), the normal state is from the start of the first specific game state until two small wins (until two tire breaks occur), and the special state is after two small wins (after two tire breaks occur).

[0099] In addition, similar control (control to determine the target presentation based on whether the state is normal or special) is also executed in the special specific game state in which the small win condition is set to two times, as in the first specific game state.

[0100] The following describes specific examples of improvements, modifications, and specific implementations of the above gameplay-related features. Note that, to the extent possible, multiple features described using the following specific examples may be applied to a configuration.

[0101] ○Specific example 1-1 In the above embodiment, it was explained that the configuration is such that a special specific jackpot is provided as the jackpot and a special specific game state is provided as the game state to which the player transitions after the special specific jackpot game ends, but even if these are not provided, it is possible to achieve gameplay that combines the ``number-cut type'' (ST type) and the ``loop type.''

[0102] For example, a game flow such as that shown in FIG. 14 may be considered (note that the conditions for ending the first specific game state and the second specific game state (variable number conditions and small win conditions) are the same as those in the above embodiment (see FIG. 5)). In the normal game state (excluding the remaining reserve chance), a normal jackpot or a first specific jackpot can be won after a first win / lose lottery (this may be a 100% first specific jackpot). After the first specific jackpot game ends, the game transitions to the first specific game state, and a "number cut type" (ST type) game is played. If the "time reduction run out," the remaining reserve chance is played, and if a second specific jackpot is won there, the game transitions to the second specific game state, and a "loop type" game is played.

[0103] ○Specific example 1-2 In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the first specific gaming state is a small win condition of two times (two or more times), and the second specific gaming state is a small win condition of one time, but by setting it in the opposite way, it is also possible to realize a game in which the "number cut type" (ST type) and the "loop type" alternate. Such a game can be realized, for example, by using the configuration shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16.

[0104] The first specific game state has a small win condition of one time, and the second specific game state has a small win condition of two times (or more than two times) (see Figure 16(a)). In this case, if a small win is won in the first specific game state, the high opening / closing mode will already have ended when the V is won, so the jackpot allocation of "no time reduction" (see Figure 16(b-2)) will be applied. By making the jackpot won in this jackpot allocation the second specific jackpot (so that the first specific jackpot cannot be won), the game will transition to the second specific game state after the second specific jackpot game ends (see Figure 15).

[0105] Since the second specific gaming state has a small win condition of two times (or more than two times), the high opening / closing mode has not ended when the first small win is won after the second specific gaming state has started. Therefore, if a V is won in the first small win game, the jackpot allocation with "time reduction" (see Figure 16 (b-1)) is applied. By making it so that the first specific jackpot is included in the jackpots won in the jackpot allocation (making it so that the second specific jackpot is not won), the game will transition to the first specific gaming state after the first specific jackpot game ends (see Figure 15).

[0106] In this way, by making it possible to win the second specific jackpot in the first specific game state (but not the first specific jackpot), and the first specific jackpot in the second specific game state (but not the second specific jackpot), it is possible to realize a gameplay in which, during a so-called consecutive win (when the specific game state continues), the first specific game state, which is a "number-cut type" (ST type), and the second specific game state, which is a "loop type", alternate.

[0107] ○Example 1-3 In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the gameplay is such that the goal is to transition to a first specific gaming state, which is a "stop-number type" (ST type), and winning a jackpot in the remaining reserved chance after the first specific gaming state has ended is the condition for transitioning to a second specific gaming state, which is a "loop type." However, the gameplay can also be configured in the opposite way, that is, the goal is to win a jackpot in the remaining reserved chance after the second specific gaming state, which is a "loop type," is the condition for transitioning to the first specific gaming state, which is a "stop-number type" (ST type). For example, such gameplay can be realized by using the configurations shown in Figures 17 and 18.

[0108] The jackpots that can be won in the normal game mode (excluding the remaining reserved chance) do not include the first specific jackpot, but do include the second specific jackpot (see Figure 17). Therefore, the player first plays with the aim of winning the second specific jackpot.

[0109] The second specific game state has a small win condition of two times (or more than two times) (see Figure 18(a)). As a result, the high opening / closing mode has not ended when the first small win is won after the second specific game state has started. Therefore, if a V is won in the first small win game, the jackpot allocation with "time reduction" (see Figure 18(b-1)) is applied. The jackpot won in this jackpot allocation is considered to be a second specific jackpot or a normal jackpot. If the second specific jackpot is won, the game will transition back to the second specific game state after the jackpot game ends. In other words, winning the second specific jackpot will result in a consecutive win.

[0110] When a normal jackpot is won in the second specific gaming state, the game transitions to the normal gaming state, but a remaining reserve chance is executed in which a second winning / losing lottery (high probability) for the four remaining reserves (second reserve information) stored in the winning fluctuation of the second specific gaming state is received. Note that, in the winning fluctuation of the second specific gaming state, the reserved storage instruction effect described in the above embodiment is executed.

[0111] Since the remaining reservation chance is already in the normal game state, the type of jackpot won during that remaining reservation chance is determined based on the jackpot allocation for "no time reduction" (see Figure 18 (b-2)). The jackpot allocation for "no time reduction" is 100% the first specific jackpot, and after the first specific jackpot game ends, the game transitions to the first specific game state. If all four second win / loss lotteries are losses, the remaining reservation chance ends and the game transitions to a state where left-hand play is encouraged. In other words, the game transitions to a state where the player aims to win a jackpot after going through the first win / loss lottery.

[0112] The first specific gaming state has a small win condition of one time (see Figure 18(a)). As a result, the high opening / closing mode ends when the first small win is won after the start of the first specific gaming state. Therefore, if a V is won in the first small win game, the jackpot allocation for "no time reduction" (see Figure 18(b-2)) is applied. Since the jackpot allocation for "no time reduction" is 100% the first specific jackpot, the game will transition back to the first specific gaming state after the first specific jackpot game ends.

[0113] If the first specific game state is started and the number of times (for example, 70 times) of consecutive misses is reached, the first specific game state that satisfies the variable number condition ends, and the game returns to the remaining reserve chance. In the final time-saving variation, the reserved storage instruction effect described in the above embodiment is executed.

[0114] In this way, there is no transition from the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reservation chance) to the first specific gaming state, but it is possible to transition from the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reservation chance), and it is also possible to transition to the first specific gaming state when a jackpot is won on the remaining reservation chance after the second specific gaming state has ended.This results in a gameplay in which the aim is to first transition to the second specific gaming state, which is a ``loop type,'' and winning a jackpot on the remaining reservation chance after the second specific gaming state has ended is the condition for transitioning to the first specific gaming state, which is a ``number-cut type'' (ST type).

[0115] ○Example 1-4 A special state is entered in the first specific game state, and it is possible to determine that a jackpot has been won in that special state. The special state is entered when a "puncture" occurs, and is not a state that is normally entered. A jackpot won in that special state may be a regular jackpot, which could lead to complaints from players. Therefore, when a jackpot is won by winning a minor jackpot in the special state, this fact is made clear from an image (see FIG. 19; hereinafter referred to as "distinguishing image 20") displayed in the display area 911.

[0116] The discrimination image 20 is preferably displayed small near the outer edge of the display area 911 so that the player does not notice it (so as not to interfere with the presentation). Alternatively, such a discrimination image 20 may be provided outside the display area 911 (or may be indicated by a light such as a lamp). For example, the normal state (default state) of the discrimination image 20 is assumed to be "blue." When a jackpot is obtained in a special state, the discrimination image 20 turns "red." A reset operation (described above) is required to return the discrimination image 20 to "blue." In other words, the player cannot return it to "blue." By doing so, even if a complaint arises because a jackpot obtained in a special state turned out to be a normal jackpot, the cause of the complaint (the occurrence of a "puncture") can be explained to the player.

[0117] 3) Promotion performance 3-1) Special images Of the jackpots available in the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment, the special specific jackpot (10R) is the jackpot with the highest expected profit (highest value) to be obtained by the player. During the special specific jackpot game, a special image 30 representing a predetermined presentation element is displayed. In this embodiment, a special image 30 representing a predetermined character (special character; indicated by the letter "X" in the drawings) is displayed (see FIG. 20(c)). Note that the appearance of the special image 30 may change as long as the player can recognize it as representing the same object. In other words, any image within a category that the player can recognize as representing the same object is considered to be a special image 30.

[0118] The special image 30 is not displayed during other types of jackpot games. Therefore, the special image 30 is an image that symbolizes the special jackpot and emphasizes (celebrates) the fact that the most valuable jackpot has been won. It is preferable that the special image 30 be displayed as early as possible. In this embodiment, the special image 30 is displayed in response to a V win (see Figure 20(b) → (c)). In this way, it is possible to further emphasize that the V win has led to the acquisition of a special specific jackpot.

[0119] Note that the special image 30 does not directly indicate a special jackpot. For example, it does not include all or part of the name (title) of the special jackpot. Furthermore, the special image 30 is not displayed in one special jackpot game but not in another special jackpot game. In this embodiment, the special image 30 is displayed in both a special jackpot game obtained in a normal game state and a special jackpot game obtained in a specific game state. Furthermore, the special image 30 does not indicate the profit (balls) or number of rounds obtained during the special jackpot.

[0120] 3-2) Special promotion performance The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment may execute a promotion effect as an effect constituting a variation effect (win variation) in which the result of the win / lose lottery is a win (small win). In this embodiment, a promotion effect may occur in a win variation in the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reserved chance). However, this does not mean that an effect substantially identical to the promotion effect described below may occur in a specific gaming state.

[0121] As described above, in this embodiment, the types of jackpots that can be won through the first win / lose lottery in the normal game state (excluding the remaining reserve chance) are three types: normal jackpot (2R), first specific jackpot (2R), and special specific jackpot (10R). In light of the number of rounds in the jackpot game and the game state to which the player transitions after the jackpot game ends, the expected value of the profit (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as profit) that the player will gain by winning each jackpot is in the following order: special specific jackpot > first specific jackpot > normal jackpot. In other words, the special specific jackpot is the jackpot that is most valuable to the player, and the normal jackpot is the jackpot that is least valuable to the player.

[0122] Since the promotion effects are related to the three types of jackpots mentioned above, but not to the second specific jackpot, the three types of jackpots mentioned above are categorized (defined) as shown in Figure 21(a) for the promotion effects. That is, the special specific jackpot (10R) is defined as a "special jackpot," and jackpots that are not included in the "special jackpot" are defined as "non-special jackpots." Therefore, the normal jackpot (2R) and the first specific jackpot (2R) are included in "non-special jackpots." Furthermore, the normal jackpot (2R) and the first specific jackpot (2R), which are "non-special jackpots," are defined as the first non-special jackpot and the second non-special jackpot, respectively. When arranged in order of decreasing profit, the order is first non-special jackpot < second non-special jackpot < special jackpot.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 21(b), in this embodiment, in the normal game mode, if a winning combination (hereinafter referred to as a special combination) using the decorative symbol 80 "7" is confirmed and displayed, it is confirmed that a special jackpot will be won. In other words, there is no possibility that the jackpot won will be a non-special jackpot. Combinations other than the special combination are considered non-special combinations. In this embodiment, a second non-special combination and a first non-special combination may be displayed as non-special combinations. The second non-special combination is a winning combination using odd-numbered decorative symbols 80 other than "7" ("1," "3," "5," and "9"). When the second non-special combination is confirmed and displayed, there is no possibility that the jackpot won will be a first non-special jackpot. In other words, it is determined that the jackpot won will be a special jackpot or a second non-special jackpot (second non-special jackpot or higher). The first non-special combination is a winning combination using even-numbered decorative symbols 80 ("2," "4," "6," and "8"). When the first non-special combination is confirmed and displayed, any of the three jackpots is possible (first non-special jackpot or higher). Therefore, from the player's perspective, the special combination has the highest value, and the first non-special combination has the lowest value. The term "confirmed display" refers to the display at the end of the during-variation performance (the display when the decorative symbols 80 have completely stopped changing). In contrast, the term "provisional display" used in the following explanation refers to a display in a pseudo-stop state (a state where the decorative symbols 80 are not completely stopped, such as slightly shaking) during the during-variation performance, in which the decorative symbols 80 have not completely stopped changing. When a winning combination is provisionally displayed, the result of the lottery is deemed to be a win. Furthermore, after a certain winning combination (a special combination or a second non-special combination) is provisionally displayed, it will not change to a winning combination of lower value and be displayed as a confirmed combination (the winning combination will not be downgraded).

[0124] As described above, when a winning combination is provisionally displayed during the variable effect, the result of the lottery is confirmed to be a win. In this embodiment, when a non-special combination (second non-special combination or first non-special combination) that is a combination of decorative symbols 80 other than "7" is provisionally displayed (see FIG. 22(a)), the result of the lottery is confirmed to be a win, but it is not certain whether a special jackpot will be won. In such a situation, a special promotion effect, which is a type of promotion effect, may occur.

[0125] The special promotion effect includes a first half and a second half. In the first half, it is unclear whether a special jackpot will be won. Specifically, the first half is executed by provisionally displaying (pseudo-stopping) a non-special combination (second non-special combination or first non-special combination) (see FIG. 22(a)), followed by the decorative pattern 80 changing (changing again) (see FIG. 22(b)). The second half is executed by indicating that a special jackpot will be won. In this embodiment, the second half is executed by displaying the above-mentioned special image 30 (an image representing a special character) (see FIG. 22(c)), after which the re-changing of the decorative pattern 80 stops and the special combination is confirmed and displayed (see FIG. 22(d)).

[0126] In this way, during the special promotion effect, the special image 30 is displayed in the same way as during a special jackpot (special specific jackpot). The special image 30 (special character) is an image that symbolizes the special jackpot (a character associated with the special jackpot), and by making the special image 30 also be displayed during the special promotion effect, it is possible to create a presentation form in which the content of the promotion effect (special promotion effect) and the jackpot (special jackpot) obtained through it are linked.

[0127] In addition, there may be cases where the special combination is confirmed and the special jackpot is announced without the special promotion effect occurring. In other words, even if the special image 30 is not displayed during the variation effect, there is a possibility that the special jackpot can be won.

[0128] 3-3) Normal promotion performance As described above, when a winning combination is provisionally displayed during the variable effect, the result of the lottery is confirmed to be a win. In this embodiment, when the first non-special combination is provisionally displayed, the result of the lottery is confirmed to be a win, but it is unclear whether a second non-special jackpot or a special jackpot will be won (the jackpot won may be the first non-special jackpot). In such a situation, not only the special promotion effect described above but also a promotion effect different from the special promotion effect (referred to as a normal promotion effect to distinguish it from a special promotion effect in which a special image 30 is displayed) may occur.

[0129] The normal promotion effect includes a first half and a second half. In the first half, it is unclear whether a second non-special jackpot will be won (it is also unclear whether a special jackpot will be won). Specifically, the first half is executed when the decorative pattern 80 is temporarily displayed (pseudo-stopped) with the first non-special combination (see FIG. 23(a)), and then changes (changes again) (see FIG. 23(b)). The second half is executed when it is clear that a second non-special jackpot will be won. In this embodiment, the second half is executed when the decorative pattern 80 stops changing again and the second non-special combination is confirmed and displayed (see FIGS. 23(c) and (d)).

[0130] Here, the special image 30 is not displayed in the normal promotion effect (see Figures 23(c) and (d)). The special image 30 is an image that symbolizes a special jackpot, but the normal promotion effect is not an effect that indicates that a special jackpot has been obtained (it is not an effect that confirms a special jackpot), so the special image 30 is not displayed. By doing this, the difference between the special promotion effect and the normal promotion effect (the difference between the jackpots that can be obtained in the future) becomes clear.

[0131] 3-4) Promotion failure The above promotion effects (special promotion effect, normal promotion effect) are effects in which the symbol combination confirmed and displayed in the latter half of the display is a symbol combination with a higher value than the symbol combination provisionally displayed in the former half of the display. In contrast, the promotion failure effect is a effect in which the symbol combination provisionally displayed in the former half of the display (see FIG. 24(a)) is changed again (see FIG. 24(b)) and then confirmed and displayed in the latter half of the display (no "promotion" of the symbol combination occurs) (see FIG. 24(d)). In this embodiment, the promotion failure effect may occur in a pattern in which a first non-special combination is provisionally displayed in the former half of the display and the first non-special combination is confirmed and displayed in the latter half of the display, or in a pattern in which a second non-special combination is provisionally displayed in the former half of the display and the second non-special combination is confirmed and displayed in the latter half of the display. Naturally, the special image 30 is not displayed in the promotion failure effect either.

[0132] 3-5) In this embodiment, there is a possibility that a jackpot "promotion" may be announced during a jackpot game (during a round). Hereinafter, the announcement of such a promotion will be referred to as a "jackpot promotion." However, the promotion effect is executed only during fluctuations and is separate from the jackpot promotion. When a second non-special combination is confirmed and displayed, a jackpot promotion may occur that notifies that the acquired jackpot was a special jackpot. When a first non-special combination is confirmed and displayed, a jackpot promotion may occur that notifies that the acquired jackpot was a special jackpot, and a jackpot promotion may occur that notifies that the acquired jackpot was a second non-special jackpot. The specific form of the jackpot promotion may be any, so an explanation will be omitted.

[0133] The occurrence of such mid-jackpot promotion means that the confirmed and displayed symbol combination indicates that the acquisition of the jackpot corresponding to the confirmed and displayed symbol combination is at least guaranteed. As shown in Figure 21(b), the confirmed and displayed second non-special combination indicates that a jackpot of a second non-special jackpot or higher (a second non-special jackpot or a special jackpot) has been confirmed. The confirmed and displayed first non-special combination indicates that a jackpot of a first non-special jackpot or higher (a first non-special jackpot, a second non-special jackpot, or a special jackpot) has been confirmed.

[0134] However, such promotion during a jackpot may not occur. In this case, when a certain symbol combination is displayed as confirmed, the winning of the jackpot corresponding to that symbol combination is determined. In other words, when a special combination is displayed as confirmed, a special jackpot is won, when a second non-special combination is displayed as confirmed, a second non-special jackpot is won, and when a first non-special combination is displayed as confirmed, a first non-special jackpot is won. From another perspective, the occurrence of a promotion effect (special promotion effect, normal promotion effect) is the last chance to rank up the type of jackpot (rank up from the time of provisional display).

[0135] The following describes specific examples in which the above-described promotion effects have been improved, modified, or embodied. Note that, to the extent possible, a configuration may be created in which multiple items described using the following specific examples are applied.

[0136] ○Specific example 2-1 In the above embodiment, it was explained that the special jackpot (special specific jackpot) is the jackpot (maximum jackpot) that has the highest expected profit value that the player can obtain among multiple types of jackpots, but the special jackpot may be configured to be something other than the maximum jackpot.

[0137] ○Specific example 2-2 A special image 30 is displayed when a mid-jackpot promotion (mid-round promotion) occurs. For example, assume that a non-special combination (first non-special combination or second non-special combination) is confirmed and displayed (see FIG. 25(a)) and then a jackpot game is started (see FIG. 25(b)). If a mid-jackpot promotion occurs during the jackpot game, informing the player that the jackpot acquired was a special jackpot, a special image 30 is displayed (see FIG. 25(c)). In other words, at the start of the jackpot game, the acquired jackpot appears to be not a special jackpot, and when it is notified that the jackpot acquired during the jackpot game was actually a special jackpot, a special image 30, which is an image symbolizing the special jackpot, is displayed to emphasize this fact. In this way, it is possible to clearly indicate that a special jackpot has been acquired (that the jackpot has been promoted to a special jackpot).

[0138] ○Example 2-3 The special image 30 is configured to be displayed in a special jackpot acquired in a normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reserved chance), that is, in a special jackpot game acquired as a so-called "first win," but not in a special jackpot game acquired in a specific gaming state. In other words, the special image 30 is displayed in a special jackpot game acquired by winning a low-probability lottery, but not in a special jackpot game acquired by winning a high-probability lottery.

[0139] As mentioned above, the promotion effect (special promotion effect) can occur when a winning variation occurs in the first winning / losing lottery in the normal gaming state (excluding the remaining reserve chance), so it is displayed only in the special jackpot game as the "first win" obtained in the normal gaming state. In other words, the scene in which the special promotion effect in which the special image 30 is displayed can occur and the scene in which the special jackpot in which the special image 30 is displayed can be obtained are common (normal gaming state). By doing so, the connection between the content of the promotion effect (special promotion effect) and the jackpot (special jackpot) obtained through it can be made easier to understand.

[0140] ○Example 2-4 In the above embodiment, the special promotion effect automatically displays the special image 30 (regardless of the player's actions). In contrast, the special promotion effect does not display the special image 30 unless a predetermined condition is met by the player's actions. For example, if the operating means 60 (see FIG. 1 ), such as a push button, is operated during a predetermined period (the period before the final display) set during the re-variation after the provisional display of a non-special combination, a lottery (display lottery) is executed as a result of the operation, and the special image 30 is displayed on the condition that the display lottery is won (see FIG. 26(a)→(b-1)). If the display lottery is not won, the special image 30 is not displayed (see FIG. 26(a)→(b-2)). Naturally, if the operating means 60 is not operated at all, the special image 30 will not be displayed. Regardless of whether the display lottery is won, the special combination is ultimately displayed as a final combination (see FIG. 26(c)). In other words, whether or not the display lottery is won (whether or not the special image 30 is displayed) merely creates a difference in presentation, and does not affect actual profits (number of balls won).

[0141] By doing as in this example, it is possible to create a special promotion effect that gives the impression that the player has caused the special image 30, which is a symbol of a special big win, to be displayed by his own efforts.

[0142] ○Example 2-5 In the above embodiment, it has been explained that the special image 30 displayed during a special jackpot game is also displayed in the special promotion effect, i.e., a common "image" is displayed. However, other effect elements (output elements that can be perceived by the player's senses) may be configured to be common. For example, a sound (hereinafter referred to as a "special sound") output from the speaker 65 (see FIG. 1) may be configured to be common. That is, the special sound output during a special jackpot game (see FIG. 27) is also output in the special promotion effect (see FIG. 28). Note that the special sound is not output during other jackpot games. In this way, the sound symbolizing the special jackpot is also output in the special promotion effect, making it easier to understand that the special promotion effect suggests the acquisition of a special jackpot.

[0143] Preferably, the special sound output during a special jackpot game is triggered by a V win (see Figure 27(b) → (c)). In this way, the special sound becomes a "noticeable sound" that notifies that a special jackpot has been won (a V win). By having such a "noticeable sound" output in the special promotion effect, it becomes easier to understand that the special promotion effect suggests that a special jackpot has been won.

[0144] 4) Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0145] It has been explained that the gaming machine 1 according to the above embodiment has so-called "type two" gameplay, which makes it possible to win a big win via a small win, but except for the configuration that is only possible with this "type two" gameplay, the configuration explained in the above embodiment can also be applied to gaming machines with "type one" gameplay (gaming machines equipped with so-called direct wins, including type one / type two mixed machines). For example, the above "promotion effect" can also be applied to gaming machines with "type one" gameplay.

[0146] Specific means (gaming machines) obtained from the above embodiment are listed below.

[0147] ○Means 1-1 a game state setting means for setting a specific game state which is a high opening / closing mode in which it is easier for the game ball to enter the starting area than in the normal game state, and a first specific game state and a second specific game state; and a game playability when the game machine is shifted to the first specific game state is a limited-time type game playability in which the condition for avoiding shifting to the normal game state is to win a jackpot before the win / loss lottery result becomes a loss a specified number of times in succession, and a game playability when the game machine is shifted to the second specific game state is a loop type game playability in which the condition for avoiding shifting to the normal game state is that the next jackpot that is virtually guaranteed to be won does not become a normal jackpot. The above gaming machine is a novel one that combines the playability of a number-cut type and a loop type.

[0148] ○Means 1-2 The gaming machine described in means 1-1 is characterized in that it is equipped with a storage means for storing, as reserved information, up to a predetermined number of pieces of the win / lose lottery information for which the corresponding variable performance has not yet begun, and the condition for transitioning to the second specific gaming state is to win a jackpot based on the reserved information stored in the storage means when the win / lose lottery results are loses for the predetermined number of consecutive times in the first specific gaming state and the game state transitions to the normal gaming state. By doing so, a novel game feature is realized in which the condition for transitioning to the second specific game state is to win a jackpot with the so-called remaining reserved amount. Furthermore, even when the first specific game state is over, there is a chance to transition to the second specific game state, which provides an interesting gaming experience.

[0149] ○Means 1-3 A jackpot can be won by making a game ball enter a special bonus area that is opened when the result of the lottery is a small win, and the types of jackpots include a first specific jackpot that transitions to the first specific game state after the jackpot game ends, and a second specific jackpot that transitions to the second specific game state after the jackpot game ends, A gaming machine as described in means 1-1 or 1-2, in which the first specific gaming state is one in which the high opening / closing mode does not end even if a small win is won once after the state has started, while the second specific gaming state is one in which the high opening / closing mode ends even if a small win is won once after the state has started, and if the gaming ball enters the bonus area in the high opening / closing mode, the jackpot won may be the first specific jackpot, and if the gaming ball is not in the high opening / closing mode, the jackpot won may be the second specific jackpot. In this way, the high opening / closing mode does not end when a small jackpot is won in the first specific game state, and the high opening / closing mode ends when a small jackpot is won in the second specific game state, thereby making it possible to make the types of jackpots that can be won different between the first specific game state and the second specific game state.

[0150] ○Means 1-4 The gaming machine described in means 1-3 is characterized in that, as the specific gaming state, a special specific gaming state is provided in which the next jackpot that is virtually guaranteed to be won will not be the normal jackpot, and the special specific gaming state is one in which, after it has started, the high opening / closing mode does not end even if one small jackpot is won. The second specific game state and the special specific game state have in common the point that the acquisition of the next big win is virtually guaranteed, but they differ in whether the high opening / closing mode ends when a small win is won, so the types of big wins that can be acquired in the second specific game state and the special specific game state can be made different.

[0151] ○Means 2-1 A winning / losing lottery means for executing a winning / losing lottery based on winning / losing lottery information acquired when a gaming ball enters the starting area; a bonus area which is opened when the winning / losing lottery result is a small winning, and in which the entry of the gaming ball is a condition for granting a big win; an opening / closing mode setting means for setting a low opening / closing mode and a high opening / closing mode in which the gaming ball is more likely to enter the starting area than when in the low opening / closing mode; and a means for determining the type of big win to be awarded depending on whether the high opening / closing mode is in effect at the time when the gaming ball enters the bonus area. and a jackpot determination means for determining whether or not a jackpot has been won, and a first specific gaming state is provided as a gaming state that is the high opening / closing mode, in which the high opening / closing mode ends when N (N is 2 or more) small jackpots are won after the start of the mode, and in the first specific gaming state, the type of target presentation that is executed when a predetermined condition is met is different between a normal state before a non-entry event occurs N-1 times in which a small jackpot has been won but the gaming ball has not entered the bonus area, and a special state after the non-entry event has occurred N-1 times. According to the gaming machine, it is possible to reduce the risk of complaints arising from the fact that the jackpot obtained in the special state is different from the jackpot obtained in the normal state.

[0152] ○Means 2-2 The target effect is an effect in which a winning combination consisting of decorative patterns of the same type is displayed, indicating that the result of the lottery is a winning result, and the type of decorative patterns that make up the winning combination displayed in the normal state is different from the type of decorative patterns that make up the winning combination displayed in the special state. By doing so, it is emphasized that the types of jackpots that can be obtained are different between the normal state and the special state (the methods for determining the types of jackpots are different).

[0153] ○Means 2-3 A gaming machine described in means 2-1 or 2-2, characterized in that special information indicating that the special state is in effect is stored in a non-volatile storage means when the non-entry event occurs N-1 times in the first specific gaming state. By doing this, even if a power outage occurs and is then restored, the game will resume in a special state (preventing the game from returning to the normal state due to a power outage, etc.).

[0154] ○Means 2-4 The gaming machine described in means 2-1 is characterized in that a second specific gaming state is provided as a gaming state which is the high opening / closing mode, in which the high opening / closing mode ends when a small jackpot is won once after the start of the mode. By doing so, the method of determining the type of big win to be obtained in the first specific gaming state and the second specific gaming state can be made different.

[0155] ○Means 3-1 A gaming machine that has multiple types of jackpots, including a special jackpot, that can be won if the result of a win / lose lottery is a win, and that is capable of executing a promotion effect as an effect that constitutes the winning variation effect from when the multiple types of decorative patterns start to vary until they stop in a manner that indicates that the result of the win / lose lottery is a win, and that is capable of executing a special promotion effect as the promotion effect, which transitions from a state in which it is uncertain whether the special jackpot can be won to a state that indicates that the special jackpot can be won, and that is characterized in that during the special promotion effect and the special jackpot, special images representing specified presentation elements are displayed. In the above gaming machine, the special promotion effect and the special jackpot are linked by a common effect element, the special image, so it is easy to see that the two are linked (the target of the special promotion effect is the special jackpot).

[0156] ○Means 3-2 The gaming machine described in means 3-1 is characterized in that there are provided two or more types of non-special jackpots which have a lower expected value of profit that the player can obtain than the special jackpot, and the two or more types of non-special jackpots include a first non-special jackpot and a second non-special jackpot which has a higher expected value of profit that the player can obtain than the first non-special jackpot, and as the promotion effect, a normal promotion effect can be executed which transitions from a state in which it is uncertain whether the second non-special jackpot can be obtained to a state which indicates that the second non-special jackpot can be obtained, and the special image is not displayed during the normal promotion effect. By doing this, it is easy to understand that the target of the normal promotion effect is not a special jackpot.

[0157] ○Means 3-3 The gaming machine described in means 3-1 or 3-2 is characterized in that the special jackpot is the jackpot with the highest expected profit that the player can obtain out of multiple types of jackpots that can be obtained. In this way, the special image acts as an element that emphasizes (symbolizes) that the highest value jackpot has been won. [Explanation of symbols]

[0158] 1. Gaming machines 10. Benefit Area 20 Discrimination image 30 Special Images 60 Operating means 65 speakers 70 Reserved Design 80 decorative designs 904 Starting Area 906 Big Winners Area 91 Display device 911 Display area

Claims

[Claim 1] a lottery means for executing a first lottery when a gaming ball enters the first area and a second lottery when a gaming ball enters the second area; a game state setting means for setting a normal game state in which the game ball should be launched aiming at the first area, and a specific game state which is a game state more advantageous to the player than the normal game state and in which the game ball should be launched aiming at the second area; Equipped with As the specific gaming states, a first specific gaming state is provided, the continuation rate of which is the probability that the next gaming state will not become the normal gaming state but will become the specific gaming state, and the continuation rate of which is the probability P, and a second specific gaming state is provided, the probability Q (wherein the probability P<the probability Q), The gaming state next to the normal gaming state may be the first specific gaming state, but may not be the second specific gaming state; A specific winning event is provided as a winning event that can be obtained through the lottery by the lottery means, and the game state after the winning game ends becomes the specific game state. The first specific gaming state is a state that ends when the second lottery, which has a winning probability of 1 / D, fails N times in a row, which is a specified number of times (where D<N), and the probability P is the probability of obtaining the specific winning in the first specific gaming state before the second lottery fails the specified number of times in a row, The second specific gaming state is a state in which it is substantially guaranteed that the next winning will be obtained through the second lottery in the second specific gaming state, and the probability Q is the probability of obtaining the specific winning in the second specific gaming state. A gaming machine characterized by:

Images